- According to a new support document, Android devices can interact with Apple's AirTag.
- The device tracker has a "lost mode" that displays a message with the owner's details.
- This information can be read by any smartphone with NFC.
Yesterday, Apple hosted a rare April event that saw the debut of new iPads, updated Macs, and 4K Apple TVs. A completely new device, but one that was largely overshadowed, was the AirTag. While Apple's device tracker works exclusively in its ecosystem, Android users can help track down the lost devices and valuables of their Apple friends.
According to a new support document (via Apple Insider) the AirTag has a "Lost Mode" function that sends a message via NFC. The message, which may contain the owner's personal information, can be read by any device that supports NFC, including Android smartphones.
However, the feature is only activated when a user puts the device into lost mode. But Apple, which offers NFC support in addition to its ultra-broadband (UWB) and Bluetooth smarts, makes a lot of sense. While NFC is not ubiquitous, it is widely used on smartphones across multiple platforms. This should also improve the chances that Apple users will reclaim their products.
How to read AirTag information with an Android smartphone
If you come in contact with a misplaced AirTag, here's how you can read it:
- Tap and hold the white side of the AirTag on your Android phone.
- Tap the notification to go to a website that will display the AirTag information.
- If the product is marked as lost, a message will be displayed with the owner's personal information.
It is still more likely that Apple users will use the Find My service to find out their lost AirTag. However, if you come across a lost tracker, you can design an Apple user's day.
AirTag will go on general sale in the US beginning April 30, starting at $ 29 for one or $ 99 for a four-pack. For Android users, alternatives include the recently launched Duo SmartTag and SmartTag Plus, as well as the venerable Tile series.
